The word Voodoo immediately brings to mind images of dolls with pins stuck in them, superstitions, magic, and curses. Actual Voodoo is a set of beliefs derived from a variety of religions, traditions, and cultures that began in Haiti before spreading to the U.S; most notably Louisiana.
Triple VooDoo Brewing, based right here in San Francisco, is churning out flavorful and unique beers, each with they own bit of black magic. Today we sample their Inception Belgian Style Ale.
Appearance
Beer pours a cloudy orangish / coppery color. Head settles at two fingers and dissipates relatively quickly. Lacing is on the thin side for a beer who claims “Belgian Style.”
Aroma
Slight earthy aromas are countered by sweeter notes of malt and citrus. Esters common in Belgian beers impart hints of banana. Yeast aromas and herbal phenols round out the nose.
Taste
Common Belgian characteristics include notes of yeast, earthiness, and banana. Hints of herbs compliment the peppery and clove-like phenols. Malt adds a slight sweetness that is balanced by mild hop bitterness.
Mouthfeel
Medium to full bodied beer fills the mouth even with a higher level of carbonation. Perhaps creamier than the style calls for. Alcohol presence is mild for a beer boasting 8% ABV.
Drinkability
An interesting take on a Belgian style beer; one that’s tough to classify. Certainly a very drinkable beer, but when it comes to Belgian beers we like to keep it traditional. West coast hops and unorthodox ingredients do not take away from the beer and some people will likely enjoy them. We’re just not those people. Overall grade for Triple VooDoo Inception Belgian Style Ale: B-
Up next on Tuesday Tasting: Flying Dog Underdog Atlantic Lager